Small tsunami hits Solomons, other warnings ended

A powerful earthquake off the Solomon Islands generated a tsunami of up to 1.5 meters that damaged dozens of homes in the South Pacific island chain Wednesday, but authorities canceled warnings for tsunamis on more distant coasts.

There were no initial reports of deaths or injuries. Solomons officials reported two 1.5-meter waves hit the western side of Santa Cruz Island, damaging around 50 homes and properties, said George Herming, a spokesman for the prime minister. Many villagers had headed to higher ground as a precaution, Herming said. (AP)